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How to File an FIR

You want to file a First Information Report (FIR) at a police station but don't know the process, or the police is refusing to register your FIR.

Do this now
  1. 01Go to the nearest police station — any station must accept Zero FIR
  2. 02Give oral or written information about the offence
  3. 03Ensure the police officer writes the FIR and reads it back to you
  4. 04Get a free copy of the FIR — this is your legal right
  5. 05Note the FIR number, date, and the name of the officer
  6. 06If police refuse, write to Superintendent of Police by registered post
  7. 07Alternatively, file a complaint before the Judicial Magistrate under Section 223 BNSS
  8. 08You can also file an FIR online through your state police website
Evidence to collect
  1. Details of the offence — what, when, where, who
  2. Names and addresses of witnesses
  3. Any physical evidence related to the crime
  4. Medical reports (if applicable)
  5. CCTV footage (if available)
  6. If police refused: written complaint copy, postal receipt
Documents you need
  1. ID proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc.)
  2. Written complaint (optional but recommended)
  3. Supporting evidence (photos, screenshots, documents)
  4. Medical report (if injury involved)
  5. Witness details
Where to complain
  1. Nearest Police Station — Zero FIR at any station
  2. State Police Website — Online FIR
  3. Superintendent of Police — If FIR is refused
  4. Judicial Magistrate Court — Section 223 BNSS complaint
  5. State Human Rights Commission — If police misconduct
Laws that apply
  1. BNSS Section 173 — Information in cognizable cases (FIR)
  2. BNSS Section 174 — Action on information
  3. BNSS Section 174 — Information in non-cognizable cases
  4. BNSS Section 223 — Complaint to Magistrate
  5. BNS Section 199 — Public servant disobeying direction under law (e.g. refusing to record an FIR)
Understanding the issue

An FIR (First Information Report) is a written document prepared by police when they receive information about a cognizable offence. Under Section 173 of BNSS, police MUST register an FIR for cognizable offences — they cannot refuse. If police refuse, you can send your complaint to the Superintendent of Police, file a private complaint before a Magistrate under Section 223 BNSS, or file a complaint online. Zero FIR means any police station must register your FIR regardless of jurisdiction.

When to see a lawyer

Consult a lawyer if police refuse to register your FIR, if you want to file a private complaint before a Magistrate, or if the case involves serious offences.